Gateron Mini i vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mini i tactile switch to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we find two distinct options catering to different preferences. The Mini i offers a gentle tactility with a fairly muted sound profile, making it ideal for office environments where a quiet professionalism is preferred. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a medium-high level of tactility with deep, resonating thocks, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback while typing. Each switch has its unique characteristics and appeal, but ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Mini i features a nylon top and bottom housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic composition. While the Mini i produces a duller and rounder sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate housing produces a more clear and resonant sound, especially suitable for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Mini i and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, both switches offer a distinct typing experience. The Mini i's nylon housing provides a softer and more muted sound when typing, creating a unique tactile feedback for users. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound, offering a more responsive typing experience with pronounced feedback. While the Mini i's housing material offers a deeper sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate housing contributes to a clearer and more defined sound quality.
When it comes to overall performance and feel, the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring play a crucial role. The combination of nylon top and bottom housing in the Mini i results in a more consistent sound profile throughout typing, with a focus on a deeper and fuller sound. Conversely, the polycarbonate housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring creates a more dynamic sound profile with a sharper edge, offering a different typing experience for users. While the qualities of each housing material may vary, both switches ultimately provide a unique and satisfying typing experience for users looking for distinct sound profiles in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Mini i is lighter in both aspects. The Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may lean towards the Mini i, while individuals seeking a stronger push feel may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on the user's preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mini i offers a quicker response time and is favored by gamers for its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a more substantial keypress feel with its longer travel distance. Both switches have their own unique advantages based on personal preference, with the Mini i being the shorter option and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring being the longer option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual typing or gaming preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Mini i offers a neutral profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a clacky and high-pitched sound that is sharp and bright. If you prefer a more subtle and muted sound, the Mini i would be the better choice, while the Shadow switch would be ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced and percussive typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mini i is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped, providing a light and lively typing experience with a gentle resistance. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped feel, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. If you prefer a softer and more elastic feedback sensation, the Mini i would be a better fit, while the Shadow switch would be ideal for those who enjoy a more intense and prominent tactile bump.
Overall, while both switches offer tactile feedback, the Gateron Mini i caters to those looking for a quieter and smoother typing experience with its neutral sound profile and bouncy feel. Alternatively, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is perfect for users seeking a more pronounced tactile bump and a sharper, clacky sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both provide quality tactile feedback in their own unique ways.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a lightweight switch with a gentle tactility, ideal for quiet typing in an office environment, the Mini i would be a suitable choice with its 50g bottom out force. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy a deep, resonating thock sound while typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring with its 63g bottom out force may be more to your liking. Both switches offer different characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and work environment. Choose wisely based on what best enhances your typing experience.
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